African cultures, including those in the Tharaka community, have long held initiation ceremonies in high regard. These rites of passage traditionally mark a crucial transition for boys and girls into adulthood, symbolizing their acceptance into a new phase of life. In Tharaka, this practice occurred annually, typically in August, when both boys and girls underwent circumcision. The ceremonies were not only a personal milestone for the initiates but also a communal event, where families and neighbors gathered to celebrate and offer wisdom to the next generation. These ceremonies signified the "rebirth" of young people into their roles as adults, ready to contribute to their families and society.

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Despite the deep-rooted significance of these rituals, certain practices associated with them, particularly female genital mutilation (FGM) and traditional male circumcision, have raised critical concerns. While these acts were originally meant to be a passage to adulthood, the methods used—especially in the case of FGM—were harmful and often life-threatening. Female circumcision left many young girls physically scarred, vulnerable to infections, and emotionally traumatized, with some even losing their lives. As the world became more aware of these risks, global and local campaigns against FGM gained momentum. However, these efforts met strong resistance in communities like Tharaka, where the rites held cultural and symbolic importance.

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Attempts to eliminate FGM often failed because they did not offer alternatives that honored the cultural essence of initiation. Simply outlawing the practice did not address the community’s need for a ceremony that marked this critical transition to adulthood. For many in Tharaka, initiation was about more than just the physical act—it was about identity, belonging, and personal growth.

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Recognizing this, the organization Ntanira Na Mugambo (NNM) took a groundbreaking approach. Translated as "Circumcision by Word or Counselling," NNM introduced an Alternative Rite of Passage (ARP) that retained the cultural significance of the initiation ceremonies while removing the harmful practice of genital mutilation. By shifting the focus from physical circumcision to education and counselling, this program allowed boys and girls to still experience the transformative rite of passage, but in a way that safeguarded their health and well-being.

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The Tharaka Women’s Welfare Program (TWWP) has been instrumental in advancing this innovative approach. Understanding the deep importance of initiation, TWWP developed two distinct ARP programs. The Ntanira na Mugambo program for girls provides a safe, empowering alternative to FGM, replacing the cut with educational sessions that focus on personal development, health, and social responsibility. Through this program, girls are guided into adulthood with wisdom and support, without enduring the pain and dangers of circumcision.

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For boys, TWWP offers the Safe Male Circumcision Program, which ensures that male circumcision is performed in a hygienic, safe environment. By doing so, they preserve the cultural significance of male circumcision while addressing the health risks traditionally associated with the practice.

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These alternative rites of passage offer a path forward, one that respects and preserves cultural traditions while ensuring the safety and dignity of young people. By replacing harmful practices with education and guidance, ARPs allow communities like Tharaka to evolve without losing their identity. The success of Ntanira Na Mugambo and TWWP demonstrates that change does not have to come at the expense of culture—instead, it can strengthen it, creating a future where young people can embrace their heritage in a way that celebrates life, health, and community.

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Through these programs, Tharaka is leading the way in showing how ancient traditions can adapt to modern values, ensuring that the next generation grows up empowered, safe, and proud of their roots.